Waldorf Toys for Babies

What is a “Waldorfy” baby toy? To me, a Waldorf toy is made from natural materials, is soothing and simple. Waldorf toys are also open ended, and their own kind of magic.

This natural rubber ball is the perfect example. It can be used as a teether. You can put a play silk in it for the baby to practice their fine motor skills such as grabbing, and pinching. It can also be thrown, and will encourage the baby to start rolling or crawling. Below are in my opinion, the best and only toys you should need for your baby before they are one year old.

Waldorf Hand Kite

A Waldorf Hand Kite is a classic Waldorf toy. It can be used as a rattle, for dancing, while running etc. I have posted a tutorial on how we made ours and dyed the ribbon with natural dyes here.

Play Silks

Play Silks are the quintessential Waldorf toy. These will be a family favorite for years and years. They are super soft and flowy. They can be used in too many ways to count!

Skwish Rattle

The Skwish is a classic, multi-sensory clutching rattle encourages grasping and reaching which are important for gross motor skills. It makes a beautiful calming noise as the wood beads hit the elastic bands. 

Natural Rubber Teethers

Babies spend so much of their first year gnawing at everything they can. Natural Rubber is a great non-toxic alternative to conventional teethers. A more durable option is silicone. Natural rubber toys do need to be replaced, they do not last forever. 

Stacking Cups

Stacking cups are another timeless toy that can be used for years and years. My boys love to use them in the bathtub. 

Soft Baby Doll 

Babies love to play with baby dolls to model their everyday experiences, and to teach someone all of the things they are learning! Baby dolls are a great play therapy toy. 

Pikler Triangle

A Pikler is a toy that will truly grow with your child. It can be used to climb, as a slide, as a reading fort and more. I recommend buying one once they are starting to pull themselves up. 

Grasping Beads

These are another favorite of mine. They are hard to describe, but they are a group of balls on an elastic string. They move around in a satisfying way, and make a nice calm sound. 

Stacking Blocks

This cute sun stacker is made with silicone, so it can be used in the bath or it can be used as a teether.